Holiday Valley Ski Patrol Raises Hundreds of Meals for Ellicottville Food Pantry
Community rallies during Mardi Gras weekend as Holiday Valley Ski Patrol collects 100 cases of food and $1,660 for local families.
ELLICOTTVILLE - The Holiday Valley Ski Patrol is extending its sincere thanks to the community following another successful annual food drive held during Mardi Gras Parade weekend. This year’s coordinator, Becky Mansell, reports that donations collected for the Ellicottville Food Pantry totaled an impressive 100 cases of food and household goods, along with $1,660 in monetary contributions.
Approximately 30 volunteers - including 20 ski patrollers and their family members - dedicated their time to the effort. Despite challenging weather conditions during Friday’s collection in front of Tops, which likely impacted financial donations (typically closer to $3,000), the outpouring of support was still significant.
The need remains strong. The Ellicottville Food Pantry required approximately $60,000 to operate last year, serving more than 75 local families. Mansell reminds residents that donations are welcome year-round. Contributions can be made by check to the United Church of Ellicottville Food Pantry, PO Box 417, 53 Elizabeth Street, Ellicottville, NY 14731.
The Ski Patrol also took a moment to recognize its own volunteers, who have faithfully supported the community through this initiative for more than 30 years - a tradition of service that continues to make a meaningful difference.